Production-spec Maruti Suzuki Ciaz gets leaked

Maruti Suzuki is set to replace its slow-selling SX4 sedan, soon, in the Indian market. Acting as replacement for the model will be the brand’s all-new offering called the Ciaz. Shown at the 2013 Beijing Motor Show, last month, in near-production form, this all-new model will compete in the C-segment with cars like the new Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Vento, Renault Scala and others. 

Although Maruti has been very tightlipped about the upcoming model, a fair bit of info is available on the web, courtesy leaks and spy images, the latest of which reveal the production-spec version of the model in all its glory.  

The car has been spied in China where it will be called the Suzuki Alivio. Now, this new model has been developed jointly by Maruti Suzuki and is the brand’s new C-segment sedan challenger that borrows design cues from the Suzuki Authentics concept that was displayed at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show. Looks wise, the production-spec model looks very similar to the one shown at Beijing last month. The car borrows the same angular design theme seen in the latter; the headlamps are particularly sporty looking. As for the rear-end, the taillight design is reminiscent of the latest-gen Honda City, while the chrome-infested exhaust tail pipes mounted within the rear bumper add a touch of distinctiveness.    

When launched here in India, expect the Ciaz to feature the same 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that powers the outgoing SX4. However, Maruti is likely to upgrade the power output to produce around 100bhp and 165Nm of torque. As for diesel power, the car is more than likely to come powered by the tried and tested 1.3-litre Multijet engine from Fiat. It, of course, will be badged DDiS in Maruti speak.  

The SX4 has been in the Indian market for quite a few years but in its time, it never really took off in the Indian market in spite of offering a fuel efficient diesel engine, spacious cabin and Maruti’s trusted after-sales support. With the all-new Ciaz that is expected to go on sale right before this festive season, Maruti Suzuki is looking to turn things around in the ever competitive C-segment.

Source: autohome